Cottage Program for Spinal Cord Injury

To inspire greater life possibilities, each summer Spinal Cord Rehab patients and clinical staff members visit the CNIB Lake Joseph Centre for the opportunity to heal body, mind and spirit. This facility is 12.5 acres of prime waterfront property, which has fully accessible cottages, grounds and trained staff.

In photo: Blaise Mutware (left) was one of 18 participants in the summer 2015 Cottage Program. He is shown here trying an adaptive bike with Therapeutic Recreation Student, Ivor Chan.

While participating in the camp, both current and recently discharged patients are encouraged to try adapted equipment while enjoying outdoor activities in a safe and supportive environment. Activities offered include waterfront pursuits like sailing, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking and fishing, and a variety of land-based activities such as hand cycling, mountain biking, outdoor shuffleboard, archery, barbequing and more.

Program evaluation has demonstrated that there are a number of therapeutic benefits. Participants build confidence and experience significant gains in disposition and self-esteem.
The cost of each patient participant is approximately $2,300 and includes registration fees, accommodation, food, special transportation, special equipment rental, medical supplies, and support staff.